Still Painting with Heart .. My Journey with Frenchic and the Legacy of Pam Gruhn

If you’ve been part of my creative world for a while, you’ll know that I’ve always gravitated towards tools and materials that speak to the soul — and Frenchic Paint has been one of those rare, lasting loves in my artist’s toolkit.

It wasn’t just about the paint (although the paint was exceptional). It was about what it stood for. And much of that was thanks to one remarkable woman: Pam Gruhn.

When Paint Became Something More

I still remember the first time I opened a tin of Frenchic. It felt different. The texture, the rich, velvety pigment, the ease of application — it was like the paint already knew what I wanted to do with it.

Whether I was upcycling a timeworn cabinet, adding personality to my studio, or blending it into my abstract mixed media work, Frenchic delivered every time. It gave me freedom and confidence — and it aligned beautifully with my values: eco-conscious, versatile, and deeply creative.

But what really drew me in — and kept me there — was the heart behind the brand.

Pam Gruhn: The Woman Who Started It All

Pam wasn’t just the founder of Frenchic — she was the lifeblood of it. Her presence, her warmth, and her grounded, good-humoured wisdom made everyone feel like they were part of something real. She made DIY feel accessible, artistry feel possible, and community feel like home.

She had that rare ability to speak directly to people — whether it was a seasoned painter, a nervous first-timer, or someone just looking to fall back in love with their home. Her tutorials felt like chats over a cuppa. Her encouragement was genuine. Her belief in people was contagious.

Pam didn’t just sell paint — she lit a fire in people. And I, like many others, felt that spark.

Building Something Bigger Than Paint

One of the most powerful parts of the Frenchic experience was the community that formed around it. It was never just about colour charts and chalky finishes — it was about people. About connection.

We laughed over wonky drawers, celebrated makeover triumphs, and rallied around one another when life got messy. That sense of belonging, of creative camaraderie, was something I’d never quite experienced before.

Becoming a Frenchic stockist was never just a business decision for me — it was a way to be part of that network. To encourage others to create. To share tips, stories, disasters, and victories. To cheer each other on.

A Legacy That Still Inspires

Since Pam’s departure from the company, there’s been a real sense of loss. Her absence has been deeply felt by so many of us — not just as customers or stockists, but as people who admired her deeply. She left behind more than just a successful brand — she left a legacy of empowerment, kindness, and creativity.

And like many others in the Frenchic family, I’ve felt the shift. The camaraderie and support network Pam nurtured so naturally hasn’t been as easy to maintain without her steady presence. But that’s all the more reason I feel passionate about keeping that original spirit alive — the laughter, the sharing, the “we’re-in-this-together” energy.

Still in Love With the Paint

Even now, I continue to use Frenchic in my own work and proudly stock it in my studio. It remains a firm favourite in my creative process — from art surfaces to home projects and beyond. The quality, versatility, and joy it brings to a project are still very much there.

Frenchic has become part of my creative language — a quiet, chalky companion that always shows up and never lets me down. And every time I pop open a tin, I still feel that echo of what Pam started.

Keeping the Frenchic Family Alive

In my own small way, I’m committed to keeping that sense of connection going — not just with my customers, but with the wider Frenchic family. I want people to feel that same sense of support and encouragement that first drew me in. The belief that creativity is for everyone, and that there’s always space for experimentation, growth, and joy — even if it gets a little messy along the way.

Final Thoughts

Pam Gruhn gave us more than just brilliant paint. She gave us courage, warmth, and a place to belong. And while the road ahead may look a little different, I’m still here — paintbrush in hand, heart wide open — continuing the journey.